Olympic National Park

Quick Facts

• Location: Olympic Peninsula, Washington
• Address: 3002 Mt Angeles Rd, Port Angeles, WA 98362
• Water Type: Pacific Ocean and freshwater lakes
• Beach Type: National park coastal beaches
• Sand Type: Mixed sand, rocks, and driftwood
• Water Conditions: Strong Pacific surf along ocean beaches
• Best For: Wilderness beaches, hiking, coastal scenery
• Best Time to Visit: June–September
• Beach Hours: Open year-round (park hours vary by area)
• Pet Policy: Dogs restricted in most park areas
• Beach Cleanliness: Pristine protected coastline
• Average Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.9/5)
• Pricing: National Park entrance fee required
• Parking: Multiple parking areas throughout the park
• Accessibility: Varies by beach; some require hiking
• Crowd Level: Moderate in popular areas

Overview

Olympic National Park protects one of the most diverse natural landscapes in the United States. Located on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula, the park includes rugged Pacific coastline, temperate rainforests, alpine mountains, and scenic lakes.

The park’s coastline features some of the most dramatic beaches in the Pacific Northwest, including Rialto Beach, Second Beach, and Shi-Shi Beach. These beaches are known for their sea stacks, tide pools, and remote wilderness scenery.

Amenities & Access

Facilities vary throughout the park.

• Visitor centers
• Campgrounds and picnic areas
• Hiking trails and scenic drives
• Parking areas near major trailheads

Safety & Water Conditions

Ocean conditions along the park’s coastline can be dangerous.

Important safety notes:

• Cold Pacific water temperatures year-round
• Strong surf and rip currents
• Sneaker waves may occur
• Always check tide charts before exploring tide pools

Things to Do

Visitors enjoy a wide variety of outdoor activities.

• Coastal hiking
• Tide pool exploration
• Wildlife observation
• Backpacking and camping
• Photography

Nearby Attractions

Visitors exploring the Olympic Peninsula may also visit:

• Hurricane Ridge scenic area
• Hoh Rain Forest
• Lake Crescent

Where to Stay

Visitors can stay in nearby communities.

• Port Angeles Hotels – Closest lodging options
• Forks Hotels – Near coastal beaches
• Olympic Peninsula Cabins – Vacation rentals

Tips & Rules

• Check park conditions before visiting
• Bring layers for changing weather
• Follow Leave No Trace principles
• Respect wildlife and protected habitats

Who This Beach Is Best For

Olympic National Park beaches are ideal for:

• Hikers and outdoor explorers
• Nature photographers
• Visitors seeking dramatic coastal wilderness

Bottom Line

Olympic National Park offers some of the most spectacular coastal landscapes in the United States, combining rugged Pacific beaches, sea stacks, and pristine wilderness scenery.